403
and from it the shipping has derived much benefit, insomuch
that every ship has been enabled to occupy a berth in the
harbour appropriate to her requirements, which was not possi-
-ble under the old system. Further, since I arrived in the
Colony, the whole Lighthouse system has been remodelled, en-
-larged and improved, with the result that the harbour and
the coasts of the Colony are now comparatively well lit,
(though the whole scheme of improvement is not yet completed)
All the old inefficient and expensive makeshifts previously
in use have been abolished; all existeng lights have been
strengthened, and at a reduced cost for upkeep, and new
lights economically installed; and for these improvements I
elain the responsibility. I may also mention that an inex-
-pensive but accurate instrument, invented by me, has been
in use for many years at three stations in the Colony for
ascertaining the distance, on sighting, of approaching ships,
This has proved a great assistance to shipping firms, who
are thus enabled to accurately estimate the time of arrival
of their vessels and to make their arrangements accordingly.
7. I should mention that my service in the Navy,
before I joined the Colonial Service, included over six years
in the Mediterranean, and about the same period on the North
American and West Indian Station, and among other parts of
the world in which I have served for briefer periods I can
claim China and the Northern part of the West Coast of Africa.
I was present at the Bonhardment of Alexandria, and mas lan-
-ded
1